Exploration Log 16: Clifford D. Simak’s speech “The Face of Science Fiction” (1953)

Clifford D. Simak’s speech “Face of Science Fiction” appeared in Minnesota Libraries, vol. XVII, no. 7. (September 1953). He originally gave it to the Minneapolis Branch Library staff. I have not found evidence that the speech appeared elsewhere or is anywhere online. I requested the article through the university library I’m affiliated with. I’ve included a transcription below. I hope with the easy access of important primary sources related to Simak’s fan activities and views on SF, we can see more scholarship on his fiction in the future vs. empty repetition of time-worn designators of his brand of SF.1 As with other posts on Simak’s interviews, speeches, and fan articles, I’ll provide a few words of summary first. Four editions of Clifford D. Simak’s City (1952): Artists and publication date from L to R, Ed Valigursky (1958), Richard Powers (1954), Karel Thole (1964), uncredited (1965) “The Face of Science Fiction” articulates the intersection of Simak’s own interest in the genre…